A controversial voter identification law was passed by the Texas Legislature earlier this year; however, it doesn't take effect until 2012.

This means voters in Tuesday's election will be able to cast their ballots as they usually do, by presenting the election worker with their voter registration card.

However, there has already been confusion, as some counties received election manuals that include the new identification requirements.

But this hasn't been a problem in Bell County, according to County Clerk Shelley Coston. "The Secretary of State's office puts out a voter handbook every two years," she said. "They have not put out a new handbook for 2012."

Coston said her office will hand out fliers to tell voters that they are not subject to the new requirements this election.

The flier also will explain what voters will need for next year's election.

When the new law takes effect on Jan. 1, voters will have to present a valid, government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, passport, military ID or concealed handgun license.

Contact Sean Wardwell at seanw@kdhnews.com or (254) 501-7552. Follow him on Twitter at KDHcity.